At least 14 people have been killed and dozens injured following a bomb explosion on a major highway in southwestern Colombia, in what authorities describe as part of a broader surge in violent attacks.
The blast occurred on the Pan-American Highway in the El TĂșnel area of CajibĂo, where an explosive device detonated in what officials called an indiscriminate attack targeting civilians. Several vehicles were destroyed, leaving behind a large crater and widespread debris, while victims included both adults and children.
Cauca Governor Octavio GuzmĂĄn confirmed the casualties and said emergency responders were deployed immediately. Colombiaâs Defence Minister Pedro SĂĄnchez also visited the scene to coordinate rescue operations, as authorities launched a national-level security response.
Officials say the bombing is part of a wider âwaveâ of coordinated attacks across multiple Ù ÙŰ§Ű·Ù in the region, including El Tambo, Caloto, PopayĂĄn, and Miranda. Colombiaâs military high command described the incidents as a serious escalation in violence.
The attacks have been blamed on dissident factions of the former rebel group Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), particularly those linked to militant leader NĂ©stor Gregorio Vera FernĂĄndez.
Although FARC officially disbanded after a 2016 peace agreement, splinter groups that rejected the deal have continued insurgent activities, especially in rural Ù Ùۧ۷Ù. These factions are believed to be responsible for ongoing violence tied to drug trafficking and territorial control.
President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack, describing those responsible as terrorists and calling for intensified global efforts to track and dismantle the groups behind the violence.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing as security forces attempt to restore order and prevent further attacks.